[Congressional Record Volume 159, Number 120 (Thursday, September 12, 2013)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page E1297] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov] CONGRATULATING TONY SKINNER ______ HON. JULIA BROWNLEY of california in the house of representatives Thursday, September 12, 2013 Ms. BROWNLEY of California. Mr. Speaker, today, I pay tribute to Tony Skinner, a highly dedicated Ventura County resident, whose commitment to the development and growth of today's skilled labor force is remarkable and commendable. For the past 10 years, Tony has served as the President of the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW) Local #952. The International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers represents 750,000 active members and retirees who work in a wide variety of fields, including utilities, construction, telecommunications, broadcasting, and manufacturing. Under his leadership, IBEW Local #952 has been instrumental in ensuring the strengthening and prosperity of Ventura County's technical and high-skilled occupations. Tony has worked to organize, mobilize, reach out to community partners, and build coalitions to change people's lives. He has been a staunch and unwavering leader in the labor community that has dedicated his career to working for our county's working families. As an advocate for technical and vocational training in the region, he has worked to bring to fruition a vision for a strong and relevant 21st century workforce. Tony founded the Architecture, Construction and Engineering High School in Camarillo, a unique and distinctive school that seeks to prepare students for construction affiliated careers through demanding circumstantial, hands-on curriculum that prepares them for higher education, apprenticeship programs, or a career. Tony currently presides as the President of the Board of Directors for the school. In addition, Tony's service to the community is extensive. He currently serves on multiple local industry associations and boards including the Tri-Counties Central Labor Council, the Ventura County Workforce Investment Board, and the Economic Development Collaborative of Ventura County. Tony personifies dedication and commitment to the growing workforce in Ventura County. I am pleased to join Ventura County's Tri-Counties Building and Construction Trades Council in honoring Tony Skinner as a true champion of America's workers. ____________________